Irvine Old Parish Church members said farewell to their 'temporary' head of congregation this weekend.

Interim moderator and locum minister of five years, Reverend Alec Wark, departed the church on Sunday, November 5.

The Reverend Wark was only supposed to be a locum minister for a short period when he arrived at Irvine Old, however, he ended up staying for five years.

On behalf of the congregation, session clerk David Whitelaw made a presentation to the departing minister at the end of the service on Sunday as he thanked him for all the support he had given Irvine Old during that time.

Rev Wark said: "I arrived knowing no one but found Irvine Old to be a friendly, caring and supportive congregation and I leave with lots of friends."

The Presbytery of the south-west Scotland has yet to appoint a new locum minister, but departing minister has promised to return on Sunday, December 10, when Irvine Old Parish celebrates Holy Communion.

Mr Whitelaw said: "The members of the congregation look forward to welcoming him back". Following the presentation in Church, the Rev Wark and his family joined the congregation for coffee and donuts in the church hall where members of the congregation were able to say their personal goodbyes to the minister."

Mr Whitelaw will now lead the service of remembrance at the Irvine War Memorial at 11am on November 12.

He will also lead worship at 11.30am when Irvine Old Parish will welcome the Royal British Legion, together with representatives from North Ayrshire Council, the armed services, and the various organisations within the town.